Volunteer

"The volunteer opportunities through Shawnee Town's educational programs perfectly align with my background as an educator. It was a win for both of us - the Museum needed assistance aligning its curriculum with Missouri and Kansas public education standards, and I have more than 30 years in education." - Cheryn Swanson, Education volunteer

Volunteer opportunities abound at Shawnee Town 1929! We need help with everything from living history program participants to people assisting with special events set-up. Volunteers not only help us fulfill our educational mission at the museum, but while doing so--gain a deep sense of satisfaction and self-fulfillment in the process.

Programs and Projects

1920s Living History Program: Shawnee Town is looking for qualified volunteers who can share their knowledge and passion for history with visitors of all ages! Volunteers are needed for living history programs (Time Traveler Thursdays and Saturdays), school programs, and general guided tours. Our volunteers are the key points of contact with museum visitors, and are responsible for educating our general public on what life was like in the 1920s. This position is responsible for telling the story of the people who lived and worked in 1920s Shawnee, its connection to the Midwest farm economy, and its relationship to Kansas City. The reconstructed town and farm at Shawnee Town are currently being developed, and interpretive programs are being built which bring these places to life. Interpreters can be involved with historic farming and domestic programs, working in a recreated “downtown” business, working with grades K - 8 school programs, and special event programs. The program will grow constantly during the next 5 - 10 years. Training is provided.

Stitch-in-Time Sewing Circle: Can you sew well and do you have an interest in historic clothing? Volunteers help sew early 20th century period clothing for museum's historical interpreters who recreate Shawnee farm and town life.

Gardeners for the Historic Garden: Our vegetable garden is used to teach during school programs as well as education for the general public. Give back to our community & watch our garden grow! Volunteer one day a week: 2 hours.

Special Events Volunteers

Old Shawnee Days: Ideal for outgoing volunteers who enjoy the local history and traditions. Help children with hands-on activities like planting in our farmstead garden, doing the wash, making a clothespin doll, explore your heritage, learn how to play horseshoes and other crafts. Two shifts each day are needed. (Register here if you're interested in volunteering)

Time Traveler Tuesdays and Thursdays & Wednesday evenings: Training provided, ideal for educators and history buffs. Volunteers dress in early 20th century attire and engage in period activities such as cooking, gardening, washing, and animal husbandry, to help bring Shawnee history alive for visitors on Tuesdays & Thursdays during the day and Wednesday evenings, during the summer. (Register here if you're interested in volunteering)

Shawnee Town Craft Fair: If you like crafts and festivals you’ll love volunteering at this fair featuring more than 100 artisans and food vendors. Help prepare the booth spaces, assist with registration, act as runners and help clean up. Come join us on the third Saturday in September! (Register here if you're interested in volunteering)

Historical Hauntings: A great fit for volunteers who enjoy helping families celebrate Halloween Help decorate, greet our visitors, pass out candy, assist with hayrides, judge costumes, or assist with clean-up. We celebrate on the Saturday right before Halloween. (Register here if you're interested in volunteering)

Christmas Around Town: Fun for friendly volunteers who enjoy the holiday season. Help decorate, welcome visitors, assist with sleigh rides, help the storyteller, be Santa’s elf, or assist with clean-up. Christmas is always the first Saturday in December. (Register here if you're interested in volunteering)

"Volunteering at Shawnee Town gives me another level of attachment to a place I've enjoyed for a long time -- and a feeling that I'm doing something productive in my community. I've also learned photography skills that I'm using in my personal life." - Kent Zimmerman, Collections volunteer

As a volunteer, you:

Get to be a part of exciting changes taking place at Shawnee Town 1929

An understanding of our past enriches our lives today. Shawnee Town 1929 invites visitors to experience a typical day in and around the farm community of Shawnee, Kansas, in the 1920s through authentic and engaging exhibits, programs, events, and historical collections.